Flowers of the Dead

Overview

In Praia, Tempu, an introverted undertaker, mourns the death of his father while facing family pressure to sell their country home and leave Cabo Verde. His life intersects with Mónica, a Cabo Verdean singer and emigrant, who is visiting on the occasion of her estranged father's burial. After the two meet during the tense family gathering that follows the ceremony, unexpected intimacy ensues. Tempu invites Mónica on a trip to enjoy Passover festivities and to visit his mother before he leaves. Their journey takes them through the island’s countryside, highlighting Mónica’s feelings of alienation. A heated argument erupts forcing them to confront their emotions. As Mónica learns painful family secrets, Tempu reveals his tragic past and his mother’s suicide that was of his father’s doing. Departing from Cabo Verde, Tempu makes peace and leaves after a tender farewell with Mónica, who, a year later, sings in nostalgia.